“No Ordinary Shop – As I approach the two-storey mill, the deep drone coming from the two turbines below the building gets louder and louder. The old structure is in great shape, thanks in large part to all the work that has been completed over the last decade by the Hope Mill Restoration Volunteers. Two of the walls are rich, textured 20″ thick limestone, while the other walls are covered with weathered clapboard siding. I notice one of the volunteers walking through the building and underneath a group of whirring belts that transfer power throughout. I realize immediately that this is no ordinary shop.”

The new Leg Vise in the workshop at the Hope Mill is featured in the Lake Erie Toolworks blog as September’s Workbench of the Month. Visit the Lake Erie Toolworks site to read all about it and see some pictures.

His Royal Highness Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, received a warm welcome from the Friends of Hope Mill and representatives of the Otonabee Conservation Foundation and Otonabee Conservation during his visit to the Hope Mill Saturday May 10, 2008.

HRH Prince Andrew arrived by canoe, paddling down the Indian River, on a beautiful sunny afternoon. The Friends of Hope Mill guided Prince Andrew through the Mill, which features an impressive collection of 19th century wood working tools, a replication of the family living area and a children’s workshop.

Following the demonstration, everyone enjoyed a cup of tea and freshly baked cookies in the company of Prince Andrew. It was a very memorable afternoon!

The Friends of Hope Mill welcomed the Hon. Flora MacDonald, federal member of parliament for Kingston and the Islands 1972-1988, and Betsy McGregor, federal Liberal candidate for Peterborough, to the mill on October 24, 2007 for a private tour. It was indeed a very enjoyable and memorable occasion.